Marianne Cochrane

I have retired after 43 years of full-time employment as a registered nurse with progressive leadership experience in a hospital neonatal intensive care unit (24 years) and teaching experience in the baccalaureate nursing program at University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT)/Durham College. After graduating from the nursing program at Sir Sandford Fleming College in 1975, I worked as a registered nurse for almost 20 years in the neonatal intensive care unit at Oshawa General Hospital, now Lakeridge Health Corporation, followed by leadership and management experience as a resource nurse, patient-care facilitator, clinical leader, and interim program manager from 1994 to 2001. While working full-time, I continued my studies and obtained my Bachelor of Administrative Studies degree from York University as well as my Master in Health Science (Nursing) degree from Charles Sturt University. I was an RNAO board member, serving as the Region 8 representative from 2001 to 2005 and as president of the Provincial Nurse Educators Interest Group. In addition, I have served on various RNAO committees, including bylaws, resolutions, and nursing education. I am presently a panel member for the Best Practice Guidelines for Practice Education in Nursing committee.

I believe nurses play a key role in the lives of individuals, their families, and their communities through establishing caring and interpersonal relationships. I feel there is no better way to influence this than by mentoring and teaching eager students the fine art and science of nursing.